Police Up DUI Patrols Leading Up To Independence Day In Evanston

EVANSTON, IL — In preparation for the Fourth of July this year, law enforcement in Evanston are upping patrols to catch impaired and distracted drivers on roads.

The traffic safety campaign runs from June 20 to July 7, encompassing three summer weekends leading up to and after Independence Day.

"We're asking all of our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely, "said Sergeant Jeff Faison. "It's simple: If you're driving, don't drink or use cannabis or other impairing substances. Our officers will be working diligently to keep impaired drivers off the road and ensure everyone is buckled up."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impaired driving crashes tend to increase around the holiday. From 2019 to 2023 Fourth of July holiday period, 2,653 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the U.S. — 40 percent of the drivers killed were drunk.

Impaired driving doesn't just include alcohol, some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, other illegal drugs and marijuana can also land someone a DUI. Evanston officers will also be stepping up enforcement for seat belts, speeding, and distracted driving.

First-time DUI charges can cost a maximum of $2,500 in fines, and drivers could get their licenses suspended if convicted.

To celebrate safely this summer, law enforcement recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends or family drive drunk. If you think you are too impaired to drive, call a taxi, take
public transit, use a ride-sharing service or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

Traffic enforcement campaigns are funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.